Phong Nha to Halong Bay Transfer: Your Ideal Vietnam Journey

Transportation to Halong

What's the best mode of transportation for a Phong Nha to Halong Bay journey? Let’s take a look!

Phong Nha and Halong Bay are two of Vietnam's most captivating natural wonders. While they're both awe-inspiring in their own right, they're separated by a considerable distance of approximately 600 kilometers. With such a significant span between these two destinations, you're presented with various transport options, each with advantages and drawbacks. These choices encompass traveling by bus, ferry, train, or plane.

In this article, our aim is to provide you with a comprehensive overview of each transportation option and offer some handy tips to ensure your journey is not only seamless but also enjoyable. 

Whether your priority is reaching your destination in the shortest time possible, keeping your expenses in check, or simply savoring the picturesque landscapes along the way, we've got all the vital information to guide you through your journey from Phong Nha to Halong Bay.

So, sit back, relax, and delve into our guide!

Overview of Halong Bay and Phong Nha

Halong Bay and Phong Nha have both been recognized twice as World Natural Heritage sites, each showcasing its unique allure and captivating beauty. Situated in Quang Binh province, Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park is home to an intricate karst landscape dating back to the Palaeozoic era, establishing it as the oldest karst area in Asia. 

These two destinations are popular among travelers seeking breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventures, and a glimpse into Vietnam's rich cultural heritage. Below, we'll delve into the specifics of each location, starting with Halong Bay.

Halong Bay - Where dragons dance on water

Halong Bay, often referred to as the "Bay of Descending Dragons," is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Vietnam's most iconic destinations. 

Halong Bay is famous among travelers seeking breathtaking landscapes.

Located in the northeastern part of the country, Halong Bay covers an area of approximately 1,553 square kilometers. It is renowned for its stunning seascape, featuring thousands of limestone karsts and islets that rise dramatically from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin.

The emerald waters of Halong Bay are dotted with thousands of limestone karsts and islets.

Halong Bay's landscape is truly unique, characterized by its towering limestone pillars covered in lush vegetation. Moreover, the bay is known for its serene and picturesque surroundings, making it a haven for photographers and nature lovers.

Tourists often take a cruise to explore the enchanting caves and grottoes in Halong Bay.

Read more: Halong Bay junk boat with the best itinerary

Phong Nha - The wonder of subterranean Vietnam

Phong Nha is another Vietnamese gem located in the central part of the country, famous for its incredible network of caves, some of which are among the largest in the world. Notable caves include Son Doong, the largest cave on Earth, and Paradise Cave, known for its breathtaking stalactites and stalagmites. 

Phong Nha is a paradise for spelunkers, with numerous underground wonders waiting to be explored.

In addition to its natural wonders, Phong Nha is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, and visitors have the opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their customs and traditions.

Visitors to Phong Nha can take boat tours to explore the intricate cave formations along the Son River.

What is the distance between Phong Nha and Halong Bay?

The distance between Phong Nha in central Vietnam and Halong Bay in the northeast is roughly 570 kilometers ( ~ 355 miles) as the crow flies. However, the actual travel distance can change depending on how you choose to travel and the route you take. As you can see, if you travel by road, the distance is about 626 kilometers (~ 389 miles), as shown in the map below.

The distance between Phong Nha and Halong Bay.

So, if you're thinking about going from Phong Nha to Halong, it's important to remember that travel times can range from 10 to 14 hours or more by road or train. Opting for a boat or a mix of different transportation methods might take even longer.

How to get from Phong Nha to Halong Bay?

There are several ways to travel from Phong Nha to Halong Bay, depending on your preferences and budget. Here's a detailed overview of how to get from Phong Nha to Halong Bay using different modes of transportation:

Air travel from Phong Nha to Halong Bay

You'll need to follow a series of steps to reach Halong Bay by air from Phong Nha, as there are no direct flights between these destinations. Here's the breakdown:

• Route: Start by taking a flight from Dong Hoi Airport (VDH), approximately 45 kilometers from Phong Nha, to Haiphong Airport (HPH), about 62 kilometers from Halong Bay.
• Distance: The aerial distance between these two airports is around 370 kilometers.
• Travel time: The flight typically lasts about 1- 1.5 hours, including the time for boarding and taxiing.
• Price: Ticket prices range from $120 to $330. Airlines offering this route include Vietjet Air, Vietnam Airlines, and Bamboo Airways, with daily flights connecting the two airports.

From Haiphong Airport, you can take a taxi to Halong Bay, which will cost you about $40 - $50 and take about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Or, you can take a shuttle bus from the airport to Tuan Chau Island - the main departure point for cruises and ferries to Halong Bay. 

Air travel ticket pricing from Phong Nha to Halong Bay.

Discover: Which is the airport near Halong Bay?

Bus journey from Phong Nha to Halong Bay

The bus is also a good choice for this stunning journey, although the travel time may be slightly longer than with other transportation options on this list.

• Travel Time: The bus ride from Phong Nha to Ninh Binh typically lasts about 7 hours.
• Price: The cost is approximately $15 per person.

Bus journey from Phong Nha to Halong Bay

From Ninh Binh, continue your journey to Halong Bay with these additional details:

• Route: Take another bus from Ninh Binh Central Hotel to Tbus Halong, Quang Ninh, the nearest bus station to Halong Bay.
• Travel Time: approximately 4 hours.
• Price: It will cost around $20 per person.

Next, from Tbus Halong, you can take a taxi or a shuttle bus to Halong Bay, which will cost you about $5 and take 15 minutes. Alternatively, visitors can walk for about 20 minutes to Ha Long Bai Chay, the main pier for cruises and ferries to Halong Bay. 

Train ride from Phong Nha to Halong Bay

For those interested in a train journey from Phong Nha to Halong Bay, here's a step-by-step guide:

• Route: Begin your journey by taking a train from Minh Le Station, situated approximately 41 kilometers from Phong Nha, to Ninh Binh Station, about 2 kilometers from the city center of Ninh Binh.
• Travel Time: The train ride generally lasts for around 8 hours.
• Price: Ticket prices vary, with options such as $30 per person for a soft seat or $44 per person for a soft sleeper.

After arriving at Ninh Binh Station, you'll need to proceed to Ninh Binh Central Hotel, which serves as the departure point for buses to Halong Bay. The journey from the station to the hotel can be completed via taxi or shuttle bus, costing approximately $5 and taking about 30 minutes.

Train ride from Phong Nha to Halong Bay

Next, take a bus from Ninh Binh Central Hotel to Tbus Halong, Quang Ninh:

• Travel Time: This bus journey spans around 4 hours.
• Price: The cost is approximately $20 per person.

Finally, travelers can follow the same transportation options mentioned in the bus journey section above to reach Halong Bay by taxi, shuttle bus, or ferry.

Car travel from Phong Nha to Halong Bay

If you're seeking the flexibility of a car journey, you can rent a car in Phong Nha and drive to Halong Bay. Here's what travelers need to know:

• Route: Rent a car and embark on a road trip spanning approximately 624 kilometers.
• Travel Time: The drive takes roughly 8 hours, but the duration can vary depending on traffic and road conditions.
• Cost: Expenses include car rental, fuel, tolls, and parking fees. On average, renting a car in Phong Nha costs about $70 per day, and the average cost of gas is about $0.94 per liter.

Car travel route

Ferry trip from Phong Nha to Halong Bay

There is no direct ferry from Phong Nha to Halong Bay, but you can take a ferry from Cat Ba Island, a popular destination for travelers who want to explore the Cat Ba National Park and Lan Ha Bay. 

To get to Cat Ba Island from Phong Nha, you must take a bus, a train, or a plane to Haiphong, the nearest city to Cat Ba Island. 

You can take a bus, ferry, or speedboat from Haiphong to Cat Ba Island. The ferry trip from Cat Ba Island to Halong Bay takes about 45 minutes and costs $5 per person.

There is no direct ferry from Phong Nha to Halong Bay.

Evaluate transportation choices between Phong Nha and Halong Bay

In this section, we will assess the advantages and disadvantages of each option, providing tips and recommendations for a more comfortable and enjoyable journey.

1. Air Travel: Fly from Dong Hoi Airport (VDH) near Phong Nha to Haiphong Airport (HPH), the closest airport to Halong Bay. Although there are no direct flights, this option is the quickest way.

• Pros: Fast and efficient, reducing travel time to approximately 5-6 hours.
• Cons: It can be relatively expensive, with ticket prices ranging from $150 to $400 or more. Besides, air travel doesn't provide the scenic road trip experience.

2. Bus Journey: Take a long-distance sleeper bus from Phong Nha to Hanoi, then transfer to another bus to Halong Bay. This choice is economical but requires longer travel time.

• Pros: Budget-friendly option, providing a chance to explore Hanoi along the way.
• Cons: The journey can take up to 14 hours, including transfers and breaks.

3. Train Ride: Travel by train from Dong Hoi to Hanoi, followed by bus or other transportation to Halong Bay.

• Pros: Scenic train ride offers a different perspective of the country.
• Cons: It's relatively time-consuming, takes about 13-14 hours, and may require multiple transfers.

4. Car Travel: Drive from Phong Nha to Halong Bay by car, allowing you to explore along the way.

• Pros: Flexibility to choose your route and make stops at your convenience.
• Cons: Long travel time, potentially exceeding 15 hours, and expenses for fuel, tolls, and accommodations if necessary.

Find out more: Sapa to Halong Bay - Exploring the Tranquil Beauty of Northern Vietnam

Places to visit in Halong Bay 

Halong Bay is a shimmering gem of Vietnam, renowned for its enchanting landscape that has been crafted by nature over eons. With thousands of limestone islands and islets adorning its emerald waters, it's a place of awe and wonder. To truly embrace the magic of Halong Bay, there's no better way than embarking on a cruise.

Paradise Vietnam's Cruises stands out as a premier cruise company, offering various cruise options, each with its unique charm and offerings. These cruises promise an unforgettable journey, where you'll uncover the splendors of this remarkable destination.

Paradise Vietnam's Cruises

As you set sail on your Paradise Vietnam's Cruises, here's what you can look forward to discovering:

Hang Luon (Luon Cave)

Hang Luon (Luon Cave)

Visit Hang Luon (Luon Cave), where you can admire the natural beauty of the limestone formations and the emerald water. It's a serene and peaceful place to enjoy the scenery and wildlife.

Titov Island

Titov Island

Titov Island is a hidden treasure with a pristine sandy beach and a panoramic viewpoint that will take your breath away. Here, you can bask in the sun's warmth, take a refreshing swim, kayak across the crystal-clear waters, or hike to the island's summit for awe-inspiring vistas.

Amazing thing to discover: Indulge in Halong Bay cruise overnight

Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave)

Surprise Cave

Be prepared to be amazed when you enter Sung Sot Cave, aptly named the Surprise Cave. This natural wonder is one of the largest and most captivating caves in Halong Bay. 

As you journey through, you'll be mesmerized by the enchanting stalactites and stalagmites, illuminated to accentuate their unique forms.

Paradise Vietnam's Cruises offers an array of cruise experiences, from luxury and boutique to elegance, grand, and delightful cruises. Each caters to different preferences and budgets, ensuring you find the perfect match for your voyage. These cruises will immerse you in the captivating wonders of Halong Bay, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Paradise Delight Cruise is one of the top services from Paradise Vietnam

Halong Bay is a treasure trove of natural wonders, and experiencing it on a cruise allows you to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes, unique geological formations, and the charm of the local culture. It's a journey that promises unforgettable memories and a deep connection with the beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Explore further: Hai Phong to Halong Bay: A Mesmerizing Journey

Common questions regarding travel from Phong Nha to Halong Bay

1. What's the quickest method to journey from Phong Nha to Halong Bay?

The fastest way to travel from Phong Nha to Halong Bay is by flying from Dong Hoi Airport to Haiphong Airport and then taking a ferry to Halong Bay. This option takes about 10 hours and costs about $150-340 per person. 

2. What's the most economical way to get from Phong Nha to Halong Bay?

The cheapest way to get from Phong Nha to Halong Bay is by bus. This option takes about 14 hours and costs about $47-82 per person. 

You can take a bus from Phong Nha Ke Bang to Ninh Binh, then take another bus from Ninh Binh Central Hotel to Tuan Chau, Quang Ninh, where you can go on a cruise to visit Halong Bay.

3. Which is the nearest airport that has flights from Phong Nha to Halong Bay?

The nearest airport that has flights from Phong Nha to Halong Bay is Cat Bi International Airport (HPH), located in Hai Phong, Vietnam. From Cat Bi International Airport, you can take ground transportation to Halong Bay, which is approximately a 1 to 1.5-hour drive away.

In a nutshell, heading from Phong Nha to Halong Bay is an amazing way to discover Vietnam's diverse and stunning landscapes. You've got options for getting there, whether by bus, train, plane, or car, to fit your budget, schedule, and taste. 

And there are plenty of attractions and fun things to do along the way, like exploring historical sites, cultural villages, natural wonders, and beautiful islands. Whatever path you take, your journey through this beautiful country is bound to be unforgettable.

We're grateful for your time reading this article, and we hope it provided valuable insights. If you have questions or thoughts to share, don't hesitate to reach out. We're all ears and here to assist.